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13th out of 82 books
—
165 voters
Brother Sun, Sister Moon: Saint Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the Creatures
In Brother Sun, Sister Moon, award-winning author Katherine Paterson reimagines a hymn of praise originally written by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1224. Illuminated with the exquisite illustrations of cut-paper artist Pamela Dalton, this picture book offers a stunningly beautiful tribute to nature.
Hardcover, 36 pages
Published
June 1st 2011
by Chronicle Books
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I'm not Catholic, but I've always had an affinity for the gentle St. Francis, who gave up his life of wealth and privilege in medieval Italy to preach to the poor, taking care of the sick and the needy. He's particularly known for his love of all animals, and his affinity for nature in all its splendor. Renowned children's author Katherine Paterson reimagines his text, The Canticle of the Sun, in this exquisite new picture book illustrated by Pamela Dalton. The text, written in free verse, sings...more
If you are looking for a children's book that is as gorgeous to look at as it is to read then Brother Sun, Sister Moon-Saint Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the Creatures re-imagined by Katherine Paterson and illustrated by Pamela Dalton is just such a book. The picture book is one of the most beautiful modern day children's books that I have found to date. The paper cut-outs that are used to illustrate the lovely adaptation or re-imagined Canticle of the Creatures by Saint Francis of Assisi are...more
I begin this review by stating that I am not now nor have I ever been Roman Catholic. Still, I have quite a soft spot for Saint Francis of Assisi, whom I'm used to seeing in statue forms in gardens. I've read a few of his prayers before, and find them to be the sort of thing I can get behind - a call for respect for all living creatures and peaceful coexistence with our natural world. It was with complete delight that I opened a package that arrived yesterday from the kind folks at Chronicle Boo...more
"We praise you for the ones among us who forgive those who have wronged them in the same spirit as you constantly forgive us. And for those who must bear in this life sickness and trial, we ask for the comfort of your everlasting arms."
―Brother Sun, Sister Moon
Whose version of this praise hymn is better, St. Francis of Assisi's or the new one written for Brother Sun, Sister Moon by the great Katherine Paterson? That's hard to say. I'm glad that the text of the original version is reproduced a...more
―Brother Sun, Sister Moon
Whose version of this praise hymn is better, St. Francis of Assisi's or the new one written for Brother Sun, Sister Moon by the great Katherine Paterson? That's hard to say. I'm glad that the text of the original version is reproduced a...more
Brother Sun, Sister Moon was a great book about the Canticle of the creatures. The best part about this book was the illustrations. I really thought it was neat how the illustrator put them onto black paper rather than white because it really made all of the images stand out more than they normally would. Each page was filled with creatures of the earth that were significantly detailed, and the color scheme was excellent. Bright colors were used, within reason, and when talking about the night t...more
AMAZING illustrations by Pamela Dalton paired with the wonderful Katherine Paterson's prose, BROTHER SUN, SISTER MOON is a gorgeous retelling of St Francis' CANTICLE OF THE CREATURES.
I've always been drawn to the humility, no nonsense attitude of St. Francis, and I think Paterson gets that tone spot on too. Her voice shines brightly throughout-harmonizing perfectly with St. Francis.
Pamela Dalton excels at matching Paterson's prose. Her scenes of the earth's & the Almighty's bounty, mystery...more
I've always been drawn to the humility, no nonsense attitude of St. Francis, and I think Paterson gets that tone spot on too. Her voice shines brightly throughout-harmonizing perfectly with St. Francis.
Pamela Dalton excels at matching Paterson's prose. Her scenes of the earth's & the Almighty's bounty, mystery...more
Brother Sun Sister Moon is a visually stunning introduction to a generous spirituality grounded in history and tradition. The time-honored words of St. Francis of Assisi teach readers to observe the world around them with the admiration and love of siblings and that every phase of life and every kind of person can be viewed through a lens of gratitude. Illustrations, poised gracefully against a black background, turn each page into a galaxy in and of itself. The soulful, folksy paper-cuttings an...more
Katherine Paterson reimagines St. Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the Creatures. Patterson's text pairs beautifully with Pamela Dalton's stunning cut-paper illustrations.
The end of the book includes The Canticle of the Creatures, and notes from the author and illustrator about creating the work.
Pamela Dalton uses a special cut-paper technique known as "Scherenschnitte"(scissor cuts). All of the illustrations in the book were cut from the same piece of paper, and then painted with water colors....more
The end of the book includes The Canticle of the Creatures, and notes from the author and illustrator about creating the work.
Pamela Dalton uses a special cut-paper technique known as "Scherenschnitte"(scissor cuts). All of the illustrations in the book were cut from the same piece of paper, and then painted with water colors....more
Extraordinary cut paper designs against a dramatic black background. Reminds me of Kate Seredy illustrations for some reason--maybe the red cheeks, the wholesome flavor. The animals are delightful and the many details (the bread, the little moths, the birds hidden in the borders, the lambs, the man wiping his brow...) wonderful! I do like the original canticle better than Paterson's interpretation as it is lovely and flowing, but this version is fine for children who need simpler language and im...more
Another selection for the Mock Caldecott, I had never heard of this book before. It is based on Saint Francis's Canticle of the Creatures written in 1224, and was re-created by author Katherine Paterson (author of Bridge to Terabithia). Although I liked the text, I absolutely loved the cut paper illustrations! Scherenschnitte ("scissor cuts") came from Germany and these intricate designs are done from one continuous piece of paper. My favorites are the illustrations from Sister Moon, Sister Deat...more
Admittedly, I am not a Christian, though there is respect towards the deities, whatever they're called (or they prefer to be called), but I don't feel you have to be religious in order to show gratitude and appreciation for the wonder that is life. This book provides delightful illustrations for Saint Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the Creatures, and it's worth a browse for the pictures alone. The words are part of a beautiful hymn giving thanks and praise for all that is necessary to exist, an...more
The cut-paper illustrations that have been painted with watercolors add more depth to the already powerful updated version of Saint Francis of Assisi's homage to nature and the wonders of God's creation. This praise song celebrates the light and the dark, Brother Sun, Sister Moon, Sister Stars, Brother Wind, and Sister Water, recognizing the gifts that each of these brings to living things. While humans are present on all the pages, interestingly, plants and creatures surround them and are depic...more
Brother Sun, Sister Moon is a glorious retelling of Saint Francis of Assisi's "Canticle of the Creatures." Rarely does a picture book meld word and illustration so seamlessly; the traditional, simple language of Katherine Paterson's "reimagining" of the prayer is translated into image through Pamela Dalton's quiet, detailed cut-paper spreads. Paterson and Dalton's collaboration is a wonderful testament to God's presence in nature, and it also provides a lovely, clear example of personification f...more
On a Mock Caldecott roll today, I guess. The text is Saint Francis of Assisi's "Canticle of the Creatures" reimagined by Katherine Paterson and illustrated by Pamela Dalton "...with cut paper and watercolor." Although I'll admit that this is not my sort of poem (either version), I do like that the book presents the original poem at the end of the book for comparison. The illustrations are quite impressive: the paper cutting technique used creates a very particular kind of depth in the illustrati...more
This gorgeous children's book, illustrating Saint Francis of Assisi's Canticles of the Creatures, is done with watercolor paper cuts that are so exquisite you want to meditate on each one. I can't imagine the book being more visually stunning then the ebook, the pages turning as delicately as a butterflies wings. But judging by the other reviews the book is likely just as lovely. You don't have to be religious or believe in God to appreciate the words--an exquisite meditation of gratitude and lo...more
Brother Sun, Sister Moon is a rewriting by Newbery winner Katherine Paterson of St. Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the Creatures. She manages to make it sound like something from the 13th century without using any difficult or outdated words, and it's easy enough to understand. My favorite part: "We praise you for our Brother Wind and every kind of weather, stormy or mild. For when he roars he reminds us of your might, and when he comes as a cooling breeze, he tells us of your gentleness. Prais...more
This is a beautiful picture book that will probably appeal most to religious or spiritual families. Katherine Patterson has "reimagined" St. Francis of Assisi's "Laudes Creturarum" (Praise Song of the Creatures, also known as the Canticle of the Sun) and they are paired with Pamela Dalton's gorgeous water-color painted papercuttings.
I was a bit unsure how I would like a "reimagined" version of a piece by a beloved figure such as Francis of Assisi, but I feel that Patterson adapted it with great...more
I was a bit unsure how I would like a "reimagined" version of a piece by a beloved figure such as Francis of Assisi, but I feel that Patterson adapted it with great...more
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Brother Sun, Sister Moon by Katherine Paterson, illustrated by Pamela Dalton is the reimagining of a hymn of praise written by Saint Francis of Assisi.
Using simpler language and imagery, Paterson reimagines this praise hymn to nature beautifully. Each stanza has a double page spread. A translation by Bill Barrett of The Canticles of the Creatures is included, as are notes by Katherine Paterson and Pamela Dalton about working on this project.
The highlight are the intricate, delicate paper cut ill...more
Using simpler language and imagery, Paterson reimagines this praise hymn to nature beautifully. Each stanza has a double page spread. A translation by Bill Barrett of The Canticles of the Creatures is included, as are notes by Katherine Paterson and Pamela Dalton about working on this project.
The highlight are the intricate, delicate paper cut ill...more
Acclaimed author, Katherine Paterson has reworked a hymn of praise first said by Saint Francis of Assisi. It praises God for our Brother Sun, Sister Moon, and Sister Stars. Brother Wind and Brother Air are praised for being both harsh and mild. Sister Water is thanked for being life-giving and Brother Fire is thanked for both warmth and playfulness. The song of praise moves through Death as well, thanking God for the days we are given and the love that we are ushered into at death. It is a unive...more
Simone picked this book at the library, and since I thought the illustrations were appealing, like beautiful old tapestries, I simply put it in my bag without realizing it was st. Assisi's canticle of creatures. My husband was amused that I decided to read it anyway, and to my surprise it was quite fascinating, and the illustrations were marvelous. The babes spent more time picking out the different animals and objects in the pictures than, I think, listening, but altogether enjoyable.
Jun 26, 2011
♥ Park-Avenue Princess ♥
rated it
5 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
Anyone and Everyone
Recommended to ♥ Park-Avenue by:
The Publicist
Thank you so much for sending this book! I will be doing a review on my site www.ParkAvePrincess.com. Children's Books to YA are my very favorite but I do love quite a few adult books as well -- Thrillers, mysterys, fashion and general fiction, fantasy and basically what's "in" right now. Growing up I could read a cereal box and be happy. My standards have grown quite a bit. But I'm always up for a challenge. If I can help you. Please let me know!
Genre: Realistic/Traditional
Copyright Date: 2011
I personally like this book. However I don't think this is a book I should bring to school. I liked this book because it does talk about praying and be thankful for things that we often take for granted. I believe this would be a great book to use in a Vacation Bible School setting. I plan on leaving this book at home in my home library so share with friends and family!
Copyright Date: 2011
I personally like this book. However I don't think this is a book I should bring to school. I liked this book because it does talk about praying and be thankful for things that we often take for granted. I believe this would be a great book to use in a Vacation Bible School setting. I plan on leaving this book at home in my home library so share with friends and family!
This is a beautiful book, to be sure. Cut paper illustrations are amazingly detailed and add quite a bit to this updated prayer of St. Francis. It's worth noting that Paterson changes the original hymn some and includes a reference to "mother earth" at the end that may make some uncomfortable. It makes the hymn sound a bit more pantheistic than the original, in my opinion.
The art in this is luscious... watercolor paintings cut from a sheet of paper against a black background. Gives it an ethnic/folkart feel. Lots and lots to look at and explore. The text was hard for me to get into, but I can imagine it being a gentle read before bed, encouraging peace and thanksgiving, which, heaven knows, we could all use more of.
Katherine Paterson offers a revised version of the old prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi, Brother Sun, Sister Moon with beautiful cut-paper illustrations by Pamela Dalton.
“We come to sing a song of praise to you,
O God, the Lord of Heaven and Earth,
who by your power and out of your love have
created all things and called them good.”
“We come to sing a song of praise to you,
O God, the Lord of Heaven and Earth,
who by your power and out of your love have
created all things and called them good.”
My mother and I were standing in a gift shop in Fredericksburg tearing up as we just glanced through this lovely book. It is beautifully illustrated. This book was a precious gift to share with my grandson sitting in my lap, getting to read it to him. A good reminder for some of us to remember we have so much to be grateful for.
A beautifully illustrated book. I have heard talk that this may be up for a Caldecott and I can see why. It is a very gentle, peaceful book. The illustrations are watercolor papercuttings. Katherine Paterson is a favorite junior fiction author so I was pleasantly surprised to see her skip genres and write a picture book.
If you could only own one children's book, this would be the one! Katherine Paterson "reimagines" Saint Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the Creatures in this delightful book. All creatures great and small find their way into her text. Pamela Dalton's artwork is beyond comparison. Magical. Just magical.
Beautiful. The five star rating could be for the illustrations alone, but Paterson also does a nice job with the text. It is a bit too complicated for the youngest of readers, but a wonderful, calming bedtime read aloud and could also work as a picture book for older readers and adults.
I usually avoid books that are overtly religious, but this one was written by Katherine Paterson, a favorite author, and the illustrations are totally amazing. They're evocative of the old cherub-cheeked children of classic Golden Books. But, it's the cut paper that draws the eye.
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From author's website:
People are always asking me questions I don't have answers for. One is, "When did you first know that you wanted to become a writer?" The fact is that I never wanted to be a writer, at least not when I was a child, or even a young woman. Today I want very much to be a writer. But when I was ten, I wanted to be either a movie star or a missionary. When I was twenty, I wanted t...more
More about Katherine Paterson...
People are always asking me questions I don't have answers for. One is, "When did you first know that you wanted to become a writer?" The fact is that I never wanted to be a writer, at least not when I was a child, or even a young woman. Today I want very much to be a writer. But when I was ten, I wanted to be either a movie star or a missionary. When I was twenty, I wanted t...more
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